KARAMARU Woodblock Printing on Washi Paper – Experience & Shop

    • Business Hour10:00〜17:30
    HolidaysWednesdays, Sundays, National Holidays & New Year's *We may be open on national holidays.
    HPhttps://www.karamaru.kyoto/

    About this atelier

    Kyo karakami beautifully decorates interior for temples, tea houses, and so on. Kyo karakami can be simply described as a type of woodblock print, using woodblocks of traditional patterns hand-carved on magnolia wood. The traditional method is to apply paint called such as kira(mica), gofun(shell powder), and so on to the surface of the woodblocks, and print the pattern onto Washi paper(Japanese paper) one by one with the palm of hand, carefully connecting the pattern on the paper. Today, we continue to use woodblocks from the Tempo period(1831-1845) and maintain the ancient tradition of patterns, paints, and tools. Karamaru is operated by Kyo karakami Maruni Co.,Ltd.

    Workshop Tours

    Guide Recommendations

    I had the pleasure of visiting this workshop as part of a guided tour, and it was truly a memorable experience. The way they preserve the tradition of Kyo-karakami (Kyoto-style decorative paper) while skillfully blending it with modern and Western design elements is both respectful and innovative. You can really feel the history of Kyo-karakami, which evolved through the tastes of aristocrats and samurai over the centuries, as well as the potential it holds for the future.

    This specialty store is dedicated to Kyo-karakami, featuring beautiful traditional patterns inspired by nature. These designs have long been used in Japanese interiors—on sliding doors and walls—and continue to shape the unique aesthetic of Kyoto homes and streetscapes.

    The hands-on experience of printing postcards using hand-carved woodblocks was exceptional. This traditional printing method, which originated in China over a thousand years ago, is now rare, making this encounter even more special. It’s a place that honors and protects tradition with great care. If you're visiting Kyoto, I highly recommend making a reservation and experiencing it for yourself.

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